Where there is smoke...

I just finished installing all new smoke detectors in our 5 apartments. Now keep in mind that each of the apartments already had them, just fine ones in perfect working order.
I was complying with a new law passed in Madison, WI. They now require hard wired or 10 year battery detectors.

I am already required to have the tenants sign a form stating there are detectors in working order at move in. This new law, a law that cost me several hundred dollars will accomplish only that, my spending several hundred dollars.

The family that introduced and sponsored this law after the death of a loved one had good intentions but like any plan, after the city of Madison got its hands on it, those intentions turned into meaningless, over-reaching legislation.

The moral of the story is before you choose to do business, know that where you do it may make it more difficult. Here are a few of the other rules specific to Madison.
You may not use criminal history to decline a rental application.
You are required to pay interest on a security deposit.
The fire department may at their choosing and without permission or warning enter your home for periodic inspection.
There are more that escape me. Don't get me wrong, I'm not bitter. Just keep these things in mind if you ever, A. Become a landlord. or, B. Speak ill of a landlord.